The region is growing more diverse, with 83% of residents reporting their race as white in 2013-17, compared to 85% in 2000. The white population experienced a decrease of 2%, while other racial and ethnic groups have grown since 2000: 64% for Hispanics, 56% for Asians and 14% for African Americans.

Our region's total population has remained relatively flat since 2000, similar to state trends but counter to the nation. In 2017, residents numbered 1.2 million, up 0.9% from 2000, compared to growth of 16% in the nation and 5% in the state. The City of Rochester and five counties, Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, Wayne, and Wyoming, lost population: 5.5% in the city and between 1.3% and 7% in each of the counties. The fastest growing counties were Ontario (9.9%) and Seneca (3.5%).

Seniors 85 years and older have been the fastest growing population in the region since 2000, increasing 36%, while the 60 to 84 age group increased 40% as well in 2013-17. Meanwhile, the under 20 and 20-39 age groups decreased by 13% and 5%, respectively.